Thanks for subscribing to the Houston Family Fun newsletter. In this issue, I’ll share some Father’s Day suggestions and some thoughts on relishing your child while you can. Get ready for summer!

Father’s Day Faves

Summer is in full swing and Father’s Day is fast approaching (Sunday, June 17). In past newsletters, I’ve talked about holidays and how to manage family commitments with your in-laws, outlaws (smile) and youngsters. I won’t cover that again now. Instead, what is it that dads really want for Father’s Day?

Answer: no stress family time

That’s the most common answer I’ve heard this year. (So my hubby has been shouting this loud and clear but he’s not the only one.) Here are a few simple ideas for your Dad’s special day.

• Fix his favorite meal.
• Better yet, pick up his favorite meal & eat at home or head out to a restaurant of his choice.
• If he’s the “play it loose, no schedule” guy, wipe your calendar clean for the day and just play it by ear. On the other hand, if he’s a scheduler, line up a few activities & times to do things Dad enjoys.
• Rent & watch his favorite movie, accompanied by his ideal movie snack.
• Football, baseball, swimming. What’s his pleasure?

Overall, take time to tell Dear Ol’ Dad how much he’s appreciated. Then, take a few steps to show him it’s true. A hug and kiss are often the best treats from family members. Repeat often.

Reflection: My, How They Grow

Think about parenthood a bit differently. I find myself moving through each day with so many tasks that even my Type A personality tires of checking off tasks and adding to tomorrow’s list. Did I also write down that my daughter slept through the night in her big girl bed this week? More importantly, did I help her celebrate this feat as she exclaimed “I DID IT!” while dancing with an over-sized Elmo? How many times did we relish the moment by tickling each other and just giggling as we rolled on the bed?

Don’t forget to take a mental snap shot of your child’s gorgeous smile. A day will come when his/her mouth will snarl and eyes will roll. You’ll need the mental reminder.

If at no other time than Father’s Day, hug your child(ren) and breathe in deeply. The smell of her hair. The sound of his giggles. The warmth of her skin as she wiggles away. These are the joyous moments of parenthood. On this holiday, give yourself the chance to stop and revel in the true gifts around you – whether you are the dad or mom.

Summer Fun

Help your kids find great summer adventures, using the book 100+ Activities for Houston Kids. You’ll find events for enjoying the warm sunshine and indoor activities when the heat is just too much. In addition to seasonal and year-round activities, the book also includes a chapter on family-friendly restaurants throughout greater Houston. When a backyard barbecue is out of the question, look up a restaurant that’s right for your family. This book can be used year after year to find fun events for your children. Order your book online or pick up your copy at any of these shops: Barnes & Noble, Berings, Borders, Blue Willow Bookshop, Brazos Book Store, Houston Invitation Service, or Olive Anne in the Heights.

Best Calendar for Houston Families

If you’d prefer a chronological listing of fun kids’ activities happening in Houston in 2007, I have the answer for you. The 2007 Houston Kids Calendar is a downloadable booklet that features a date by date account of family-oriented activities and events in our area. For only $10, you gain instant access to this valuable tool for spending quality time with the children in your life. Download your copy and get busy. It’s wonderful for summer time and autumn weekends.

Megan F. Salch

"The Kids Activity Queen"

MeganSalch@TellYourTale.com

www.TellYourTale.com/Kids